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Large boulders are commonly used as focal points in rock gardens, but the size and weight of boulders makes them difficult to move. Artificial rocks provide the same look as a real rock, but many are hollow or made from lightweight materials to reduce the weight. You can find artificial rocks made from cast concrete, fiberglass or high-density polymers that look as authentic as natural stone. Creative landscaping around the rock makes it difficult to tell the rock is fake. If the rocks are hollow, they can be used to conceal pipes and other utility equipment in the yard.

1

Measure the dimensions of any object you wish to conceal so you can purchase an artificial rock that completely covers the object without touching. Position the artificial rock over the object in your yard, ensuring that all sides of the rock touch the ground. This step only applies if you want to cover a pipe or utility meter with an artificial rock.

2

Place a large artificial rock as the focal point in the center of your rock garden. If desired, you can build up the soil around the rock or bury up to one-third of the fake rock in the ground to make it look like part of the natural landscape.

3

Arrange at least two more artificial or real rocks around the artificial rock. Rock landscaping looks best when grouped in odd numbers. If you use real rocks, choose rocks that are roughly the same color and shape so the artificial rock blends in with the real rocks.

5

Plant a row of low-mounding perennial shrubs or flowers around the base of the rock, set about 12 inches out from the rock so you can still access any object that may be hidden under the rock. Plant the plants close together so they conceal the point where the fake rock meets the ground. Native, drought-resistant plants work best because they require little maintenance and can tolerate the higher heat and dry conditions that are typical around rocks. Native selections you might use in Mediterranean climates include "Island Pink" yarrow (Achillea millefolium "Island Pink), Monterey manzanita (Arctostaphylos hookeri "Wayside") and beach evening primrose (Camissonia cheiranthifolia).

6

Place small artificial rocks as edging on the ground around the perimeter of the rock garden. Although artificial, these will work just as well to define the border and prevent weeds from crossing into the rock garden.

7

Spread 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch around the artificial rock and the plants. Push the mulch up against the edges of the rocks to conceal the bottom lip, making it look as though the rock is set in the ground. If desired, you can also add mulch around a hidden object before placing the artificial rock.

Things You Will Need

Measuring tape

Real rocks

Small tree

Ornamental grass

Small shrubs

Flowers

Organic mulch

Tip

Artificial rocks are not restricted to focal points in rock gardens. You can apply the same basic design principles for use in a flower bed at the end of your driveway or place several around a pool to give the look of a natural pond or lake.

About the Author

A former cake decorator and competitive horticulturist, Amelia Allonsy is most at home in the kitchen or with her hands in the dirt. She received her Bachelor's degree from West Virginia University. Her work has been published in the San Francisco Chronicle and on other websites.